Incubadoras de Base Tecnológica - Algarve2030

The main goal of this opportunity is to promote innovation and competitiveness in the Algarve region. The focus is on developing and strengthening research and innovation capacities, especially through the adoption of advanced technologies. Projects should support infrastructure and technological equipment, with a particular emphasis on technology-based incubators. There is a strong focus on knowledge transfer and technology development. The initiative is geographically limited to the Algarve region in Portugal.

• Projects must involve the construction, equipment, or reconversion of technology-based incubators.
• They should promote and connect incubators in the region.
• Projects must accelerate and systematize the creation and development of new technology-based companies.
• They must align with regional priorities, such as tourism, health and longevity, environmental sustainability, digitalization, and ICT.
• Projects should be relevant to the Algarve's Smart Specialization Strategies.

Examples:

• Setting up a new incubator focused on digital health solutions in the Algarve.
• Re-equipping an existing incubator to support startups in sustainable tourism technology.
• Creating a network of ICT incubators to foster innovation in local environmental monitoring.

• Construction and adaptation of physical infrastructures.
• Acquisition of studies, such as architectural and engineering project plans and supervision services.
• Purchase of equipment, information systems, and communication technologies for infrastructure qualification.
• Specialized goods and services necessary for infrastructure operation.
• Personnel costs, including salaries proportional to project time and mandatory social charges.

Some costs may be reimbursed using simplified models, such as a fixed 20% rate on direct eligible costs (excluding personnel costs). For projects costing €200,000 or less, funding is based on fixed amounts tied to project milestones.

• Total budget of the grant: €1,000,000
• Co-financing rate: 60% (for expenses paid until September 30, 2025); 55% afterward, with a possible 5% bonus for exceeding result indicators
• Maximum per project: €200,000
• Maximum project duration: 36 months
• Other financial details: Payments are made in stages (45% at 40% completion, 30% at 75% completion, 15% after final report). Advance payments and reimbursements can reach up to 95% of the approved amount, with the final payment after project completion. Infrastructure must remain in use for at least five years after the last payment. Projects must show climate change resilience and cannot be completed before applying.

• Applicants must demonstrate a balanced financial situation or the ability to finance the project, supported by recent financial statements or certified interim balances.
• The project must align with the priorities of the Algarve Innovation Council, such as tourism, health and longevity, environmental sustainability, digitalization, and ICT.
• A detailed Economic-Financial Viability Study is required, showing future financial sustainability.
• Applicants must submit a detailed and justified technical plan and budget, with costs aligned to objectives.
• The project must not be materially completed or fully executed before applying.
• Applicants must demonstrate climate change resilience and comply with the "Do No Significant Harm" principle for infrastructure investments lasting at least five years.
• Applicants must provide documentation proving the maturity of the investment, such as project approvals and licenses.
• Access to infrastructures must be open, transparent, and non-discriminatory, and public procurement rules apply if operations involve concessions or third parties.